Methods for Installing Spacer for Non-weightbearing Cast

Abstract

Methods for installing braces or spacers or braces that protect the heel of a person wearing a non-weightbearing cast, for applying multiple exemplary embodiments are described, such as an embodiment with two braces that are each attached to at least one point on either side of the foot, with one brace below the heel and the other behind the heel with a clearance space between each brace and the cast, to redirect loads from the heel to points behind the ankle and forward of the arch.

I claim: 
     
         1 . A method for installing braces to a non-weightbearing cast by an installer to a patient whereby
 a doctor or provider orders non-weightbearing casts of any of the type
 Fiberglass long leg cast, 
 short leg cast, 
 Fiberglass long leg splints, 
 short leg splints. 
 Plaster long leg cast, 
 short leg cast, 
 Plaster long leg splints, 
 short leg splints. 
 Hip Spica Cast 
 long leg Fiberglass and Plaster, 
 or other similar types of casts; 
 to aid in healing common fractures of the type: 
 Tibia, Fibula, Ankle, Navicular, Cuboid, Cuneiform Bones, Stress Fractures; 
   an installer fabricates and installs an appropriate non-weightbearing cast to the patient;   installer clearly communicates to the patient that the objective is to protect the heel from contact when a force is applied to the cast at the heel area,   installer selects appropriate braces,   and that this is accomplished by redistributing the force to the distal and proximal ends of the foot and ankle structures;   installer opens the packaging which includes at a minimum, the brace assembly (or two braces) and their attachment hardware;   Installer attaches the hardware and brace assemblies to the cast,   during or after which the cast is completely formed;   as the braces are placed, a first brace is to be located at the distal end of the foot and cast, with attachments at the inner side of the navicular and outer side of the cuboid bones;   a second brace is located to the posterior end of the foot and cast, with attachments at the inner side of the medial malleous bone and outer side of the lateral malleolus bone;   installer holds the brace in place and secures using 2 inch or 3 inch width fiberglass cast material;   installer smooths and molds the cast material to secure the braces firmly and smooth edges for uniformity.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  further including steps for after both braces are secured and molded into place, including providing
 specific care instructions that are necessary and include appropriate warnings; 
 once patient is clearly informed of the necessary care inform patient of the benefits of the braced cast over the nonbraced cast;
 a. Sleeping 
 b. Resting 
 c. Increased ability to live a more normal life by having increased ability to place foot in usual circumstances (as opposed to having to remain in a controlled environment to eliminate possible contact with the cast and other items) such as:
 Attend school during recovery, 
 Attend sporting events, 
 Go out to restaurants, 
 Ride in an automobile, 
 Go to movie, 
 Shop, 
 And any other activities beyond historical restrictions; 
 
 
 provide further traditional instructions for resting, sitting or sleeping using a towel or pillow that may be placed below the cast; and 
 when showering or bathing the cast and braces must be covered with plastic and cast covers as provided by your orthopedic tech or other medical professional, following their instruction carefully. 
 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  further including steps specifically required to install other embodiments of braces with different features and capabilities; and
 Testing of proper functionality; 
 of a nonlimiting mechanical, audible embodiment, wherein each mechanism is tested by the installer using an appropriate weighting to test for a 5# maximum load; 
 and of the electrical embodiments wherein the electrical connections and mechanisms are tested for operability; and 
 installing general items including batteries, attaching decorative features, and the like.